Kaukaza Shashlik Recipe

Kaukaza Shashlik is a beloved dish with roots in the Caucasus region, known for its aromatic and juicy grilled meat. This recipe transforms tender, lean meat into flavorful skewers using a robust marinade of onions, garlic, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and vinegar. After marinating, the meat is traditionally cooked over glowing coals, enhancing its succulent texture and smoky aroma. The combination of savory spices and tangy marinade results in a burst of flavors. While the classic preparation calls for metal skewers and a charcoal grill, it can also be made in an oven or electric grill. Typically served with plum or tomato sauce, it pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice. This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings and makes for a memorable culinary experience. A hint of parsley adds a fresh finish, and the tantalizing aroma is sure to entice everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

800 g tender, lean meat
3 onions
4 cloves of garlic
1 bunch of parsley

Marinade:

Juice of 1 lemon
3 tbsp vinegar

Spices:

Salt
Black pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 280 minutes (including marination)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meat: Begin by trimming the meat, removing any tendons, and cutting it into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onions and garlic to maximize their flavor release.
Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine chopped onions, garlic, and parsley. Add lemon juice and vinegar.
Season the Meat: Sprinkle the meat generously with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Marinate the Meat: Add the meat to the bowl with the marinade. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece is well-coated.
Compress and Cover: Press the mixture down in the bowl, cover with a heavy object or lid to infuse flavors deeply.
Chill the Meat: Place the marinated meat in a cool place (such as a refrigerator) for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Grill: If using charcoal, heat the coals until they are white-hot. If using an oven, preheat to grill settings.
Thread Meat on Skewers: Carefully spear each piece of marinated meat onto metal skewers, leaving some space between pieces for even cooking.
Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers over the coals or onto an oven rack. Turn occasionally to ensure all sides cook evenly and develop a nice char.
Check for Doneness: Grill until meat is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges, which will take around 10-15 minutes depending on heat intensity.
Rest the Meat: Let the skewers rest a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Serve: Accompany the shashlik with your choice of sauces like tkemali (plum sauce) or a tomato-based sauce.
Garnish: Add fresh parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Bonus Steps: Optionally, serve alongside fluffy rice which can balance the robust flavors of the meat.
Enjoy: Share the delicious Kaukaza Shashlik with friends and family.
Special Note: Ensure the meat is marinated properly to intensify the flavors.
Enhancement: Adjust vinegar and lemon to control the sourness in the marinade.
Grill Alternative: Use an electric skewer roaster if available for convenience.
Final Touches: Adjust seasoning to your preference before serving.

Tips

Substitute lemon juice with lime for a different citrus burst.
Use metal skewers for even heat distribution.
Optimal marination time is overnight for best flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: Approx. 320 per serving
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 8g
Fats: 22g

Variations

Use chicken or lamb instead of beef for different flavors.
Add bell peppers and cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a colorful twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of fluffy basmati rice or pita bread.
Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Best Places

Dolmama - Experience authentic Caucasian flavors in a cozy setting. Location: 10 Pushkin St, Yerevan, Armenia.
BnB Shashlik - Offers a wide variety of shashlik options with a modern twist. Location: 32 Chavchavadze Ave, Tbilisi, Georgia.
Home of Shashlik - Known for its superb shashlik and traditional atmosphere. Location: 5 Amiryan St, Yerevan, Armenia.
Tskhvarichamia - Rustic spot with a rich selection of grilled meats. Location: 18, Phano Tavern St, Tskhvarichamia, Georgia.
Shashlik House - Casual eatery celebrated for its tender meats and sauces. Location: 45 Amberd St, Ashtarak, Armenia.
Acharuli Khachapuri - More than just bread, try their exotic shashlik varieties. Location: Vake, Al. Kazbegi Ave 41, Tbilisi, Georgia.
Armenian Tavern - Charming venue offering classic Armenian shashlik. Location: Tumanyan St, Yerevan, Armenia.
The Caucasus House - Enjoy a fusion of traditional dishes in a historic setting. Location: David Aghmashenebeli Ave 149, Tbilisi, Georgia.
Grill Garden - Known for delightful Caucasian barbecue in a garden setting. Location: 14 Kalents St, Yerevan, Armenia.
Saperavi - Offers a refined take on shashlik with wine pairings. Location: 33/35 Levan Mikeladze St, Tbilisi, Georgia.